Polysilicone-11: properties, uses, pros, cons, safety

Polysilicone-11 is used in cosmetic products, especially in face primers, foundations, and skincare products.

It is a chemical compound obtained by the reaction between bis-vinyldimethicone and hydrogen and is produced in a cosmetic-grade solvent based on cyclopentasiloxane (D5), preferably from raw materials with low cyclotetrasiloxane (D4) content, using a hydroxylation catalyst.Silicones possess high chemical stability, but low biodegradability and high bioaccumulation potential.

The name defines the structure of the molecule:

• Poly refers to polymers, which are large molecules composed of repeated subunits. In the context of chemical science and materials, a polymer is a large molecule, or macromolecule, composed of many repeated subunits, known as monomers.
• Silicone is a type of synthetic material with a wide range of uses, from lubricants to medical applications to cosmetics. Silicones are polymers that include any synthetic compound consisting of repeated units of siloxane, which is a chain of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms, combined with carbon and/or hydrogen.

• -11 refers to the average number of repeated units in the polymer. This is an average number because the actual number of repeated units may vary from molecule to molecule.

The synthesis process takes place in different steps:

• Monomer production. The first step is the production of the monomers that will form the polymer chain. For polysilicon-11, the primary monomer is a type of organosilicon compound, which is produced by reacting silicon with methyl chloride at high temperature to produce dimethyldichlorosilane.
• Polymerisation. Dimethyldichlorosilane is hydrolysed to produce silanol, which must be polymerised to form polysilicon-11. Typically, a process called condensation polymerisation is used, in which the silanol monomers react with each other to form the polymer chain and a small molecule, usually water, is removed.
• Functionalisation. After the polymer chain is formed, it can be functionalised to improve its properties. In the case of polysilicone-11, this typically involves modifying the polymer to improve its compatibility with other ingredients in a formulation or to give it specific properties such as a matt finish or the ability to fill in wrinkles.

Silicones have high chemical stability but low biodegradability and high bioaccumulation potential.

Safety

 It is an ingredient that has a high bioaccumulation and persistence, however in cosmetic use this ingredient is considered safe.

Polysilicone-11 is a type of silicone, which are typically colorless and can come in various forms such as oils, rubbers, or resins. However, the exact form and color of Polysilicone-11 may depend on how it is processed or used in specific products. 

What it is used for and where

Silicones, such as Polysilicone-11, are a type of synthetic polymer developed in the early 20th century. They have a wide range of applications, from industrial uses to personal care products, due to their unique properties such as thermal stability, water resistance and low toxicity.

Cosmetics

Polysilicone-11 is known for its texture-enhancing properties, providing a smooth and mattifying finish. It helps to reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines, creating an even base for makeup. It is also valued for its lightweight and non-greasy feel on the skin.

Film-forming agent. It produces a continuous ultra-thin film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on the skin or hair to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.

CAS   63394-02-5

EC number   613-211-3

Commercial Applications

Cosmetics and Skin Care. Polisilicone-11 is often utilized in cosmetic formulations as a smoothing agent. It can minimize the appearance of pores and diminish imperfections, giving the skin a more refined look.

Anti-Aging Products. Due to its smoothing properties, it can be found in anti-aging products to enhance skin texture.

Foundations and Primers. Polisilicone-11 can be employed in foundations and primers to help provide a smoothed base before makeup application.